Cue the Champion: Day 3 Wrap-up
Overview
- Stage Cost: None
- First Clear Rewards: None
Guide
- Hover to view spoiler content.
Script
Pool Club
After the quarter-finals, the opponents you encounter are also getting more and more formidable.
Although you and Artem have successfully advanced, you have even less reason to relax as the crux of the tournament draws near.
In order to learn more about your opponents, you and Artem stay and watch their practice games even after your own games are over.
You: Ah... what a pity. Why did they make a mistake there...?
Two teams are competing nearby.
Unfortunately, just as the team that went first was about to win that game, they made a small mistake which gave their opponents a chance to counterattack.
You: Artem, do you think they can make use of this opportunity?
You turn your head and realize that Artem is already looking at you, seemingly deep in thought.
Artem: Well... there's a saying in many ball games.
Artem: If you fail to grasp your chance, you'll be punished by both fortune and the competition itself.
Almost as soon as Artem finishes speaking, the crisp sound of a ball falling into the pocket can be heard, indicating that the opposing team has evened the score again.
The advantage accumulated by the team that went first instantly vanishes. Both sides have returned to the same starting line.
You: I didn't realize it before, but pool is actually a really exciting sport.
Artem: Are you nervous?
You: A little. After all, they may also become our opponents in the future.
Artem: That reaction makes me think you don't trust in my ability.
You: Pfft...
He solemnly imitates what you said before, instantly causing your nervous mood to dissipate.
Now that you're feeling more relaxed, an interesting thought comes to mind.
You: It doesn't feel like we're involved at all when we just watch like this. How about we make a bet?
Artem: A bet? Do you want to bet on the winner of this game?
You: Well, not only would it make us more involved in the game, but it would also make things more fun. It's a win-win.
Upon hearing this, Artem's interest seems to be piqued as well. He turns slightly and leans in closer to you.
Artem: Since it's a bet, what are the stakes?
You: Hmm... Money would be too cliché...
You: I know!
You: The person who loses has to carry the winner home on their back!
Artem: ...
Artem: Are you sure?
Artem: It is not that I don't believe in you, but it may be difficult for you to carry me on your back.
You: Don't be so quick to assume that I'll lose! Maybe you'll be carrying me home. It's time to test your physical strength!
Artem: ...
Artem: If you insist... then I'll take your word for it.
You hear the sound of the balls scattering. The final game has begun.
Artem: Which side do you want to bet on?
It was just a bet that you proposed in the heat of the moment, but when you have to make a choice, you can't help but hesitate.
The team that goes first has been playing steadily so far, and is obviously better than their opponent. If it weren't for the small mistake just now, the game would have been over long ago.
Although the other team has constantly been at a disadvantage, they've maintained an unruffled state of mind. They are still giving their all at every opportunity.
You: (Just who will win this round?)
You: I think the team that goes first will win.
You: After all, they only made a small mistake just now — it's not like they're a bad team. As long as they learn their lesson, they'll definitely win this time.
You: I think... the team that goes second will win.
You: What goes around comes around. They've been the underdog the entire time, and now it's time for them to bounce back.
Artem: Okay, then I'll bet on the other team.
Artem's casual attitude ignites your competitive spirit, and you silently cheer for your chosen team.
You: Ah...
However, things don't go as planned. The team you selected makes repeated mistakes and is about to hand the victory to the other team.
You: Dang it!
You sigh and mutter something in a low voice, but it's too soft for Artem to hear. He leans in a little closer.
Artem: What were you saying?
You: Umm... It's just that, this game is so long that I'm getting sleepy watching it...
You were going to say that it's nothing, but ended up making an excuse instead, trying to wriggle out of the bet you just made.
You: (What a terrible excuse... Why would Artem ever believe it...? I should just willingly admit defeat...)
Artem: Is that so...
He looks at his watch, frowns slightly, then looks at you.
Artem: Hmm... It's quite late. In that case, let's go back.
You: Huh?
Artem seems to have no suspicions at all. He stands up and picks up all your things.
Artem: Let's go home. You need to rest.
You: Huh? O-okay...
Things have taken a sudden turn, and Artem is acting as though nothing happened. Despite your confusion, you still follow him to the parking lot to get the car.
Parking Lot
The huge parking lot is quiet and deserted. You look at Artem, who is walking half a step in front of you. Just as you are secretly feeling thankful that you got out of the bet, he suddenly stops.
The next second, he suddenly half-kneels with his back towards you, and lightly pats his own shoulder.
Artem: Here, get on. I'll carry you.
You: ???
He looks back at you, his voice as calm as ever. But you are unable to accept the sight before you.
You: According to the bet we just made... I should be the one to...
Artem: This has nothing to do with the bet.
Artem: Aren't you tired? Besides, when you mentioned this in the bet, I thought... maybe you wanted to try it out for yourself?
You: I...
Artem: Oh? Did I guess wrong?
He smiles in resignation and moves to stand up. Since there's no time to lose, you immediately wrap your arms around his neck and lean your whole body against his.
You: I... I never said I didn't want to try it out.
Artem: ...
Artem: Then hold on to me more tightly, and tell me if you feel uncomfortable.
You: Will do.
He steadies you, then stands up firmly, striding forward with long steps.
You: Are you really going to carry me home?
You: It's not that I don't want you to — just don't force yourself.
Artem: I know.
You lean in and listen to the rhythmic sound coming from his chest. You actually start to feel a little sleepy.
Before you slowly close your eyes, you can hear his soft voice, like the most calming lullaby in the world.
Artem: Rest up. You've worked hard lately.
Summary
